Why Are Allergies So Common in Georgia?

Signs, Causes, and Treatment Options
If your pet starts itching, chewing paws, or getting frequent ear infections this time of year, you’re not alone. Georgia’s warm climate and long pollen seasons create the perfect conditions for environmental allergens—meaning pets in the Southeast can experience symptoms for many months each year.

Common types of allergies in pets
Allergies generally fall into a few categories:

Environmental (Atopy):
Triggered by pollen, mold spores, grasses, and dust mites.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis:
A reaction to flea saliva. For some pets, even one flea bite can cause intense itching and inflammation.

Food allergies:
Often related to proteins such as chicken, beef, or dairy.
What allergy symptoms look like in dogs and cats, unlike people, pets often show allergy symptoms through the skin.
Watch for:

• Excessive scratching or chewing
• Licking paws
• Recurrent ear infections
• Hair loss or hot spots
• Red, inflamed skin

Over time, chronic inflammation can weaken the skin barrier and increase the risk of secondary bacterial or yeast infections.

How we diagnose allergies

Diagnosis starts with a physical exam and history, and may include:

• Skin and ear cytology
• Flea assessment
• Diet trials (for possible food allergies)
• Allergy testing (when appropriate)

Treatment options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Prescription allergy medications
• Medicated shampoos
• Consistent flea prevention
• Antifungal or antibacterial medications (if secondary infections are present)

When to schedule an exam

If your pet is persistently scratching, licking, or experiencing recurrent ear infections, an exam is recommended. Early intervention prevents ongoing discomfort and helps reduce the risk of chronic skin issues.

📞 Call Reese Veterinary Hospital at 762-279-8381 to schedule an appointment.